Pakistanis feared dead in Libya boat tragedy

The Foreign Office (FO) said on Monday that several Pakistani nationals were feared dead in yet another Libyan maritime tragedy, carrying over 65 illegal migrants from various countries.

The Foreign Office confirmed that the Pakistan Embassy in Tripoli has sent a team to Zawiya Hospital to assist in identifying the deceased and gathering information about the affected Pakistanis.

The Crisis Management Unit at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs is closely monitoring the situation. Concerned individuals can contact the Pakistan Embassy in Tripoli or the Foreign Office in Islamabad for updates. This tragedy follows a similar incident on January 16, when a boat carrying 80 passengers capsized near Morocco’s port of Dakhla. Over 45 Pakistanis reportedly lost their lives, while 21 survivors were identified and repatriated.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has directed the Federal Investigation Agency to intensify its crackdown on human smugglers to prevent such incidents. The FIA has arrested several traffickers and dismantled organized smuggling networks. Additionally, more than 60 FIA officials found colluding with smugglers have been dismissed.

Authorities continue efforts to identify the victims and take measures to curb illegal migration, ensuring the safety of Pakistani nationals.